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Audit of the Canadian Embassy, Tunis

Executive Summary

An audit of the International Business Development (IBD), General Relations, Consular and Administration Programs was conducted in Tunis from October 23 to 27, 2000. A previous audit was conducted in September 1994. The office in Tripoli, which reports to the Head of Mission (HOM) in Tunis, was not visited as part of this audit.

Management of the Mission

This is a well-managed Mission led by an experienced HOM. There is good communication within the Mission, and the regular meetings of the Committee on Mission Management (CMM) afford the opportunity for Program Managers to share information. At the time of the audit, the Mission was facing a number of questions regarding possible expansion or contraction of the Immigration and Development Programs, respectively. The Quebec Immigration Service had indicated a desire to co-locate an office in Tunis. Additionally, there were plans to expand the Trade Office in Tripoli, Libya. Since the audit visit, a Canada-based (CBS) FS-02 Officer has been posted to Libya, and an Embassy has been opened. All of the above issues will have an immediate and ongoing effect on both the role and size of the Mission. The establishment of a Locally-engaged Staff (LES) Committee is encouraged, and an annual Mission retreat would improve cohesion amongst the various Programs, as well as morale.

General Relations Program

At the time of the audit, the General Relations Program had just completed its work on the second largest delegation visit in six months. The Program was also preoccupied with the planned expansion of Canada's presence in Libya. Despite this workload, the Program's planning process was well underway. Recommendations have been made to improve this process.

International Business Development (IBD) Program

The IBD Program is a small one that focusses on niche markets and there is little potential for significant trade expansion. With the placement of the CBS Officer in Tripoli, the support role the IBD Program has played there is expected to change. Recommendations have been made to improve the planning process.

Administration Program

The Administration Program is well managed and significant improvements have been made in a short time since the new Management and Consular Officer (MCO) arrived at the Mission. The current Chancery configuration needs to be reviewed to ensure the best possible accommodation of current and future programs. The Mission will need to implement a number of basic internal controls that have been missing for some time, and to challenge certain staff privileges and payments that have been implemented. Communications would be improved with a hub and spoke agreement between the Mission and Tripoli.